Office of Student Affairs & Activities

Red Folder

Supporting Student's Well Being

Change, even when chosen, can be challenging. Whether students are adjusting to a new academic environment, personal circumstances, or emotional difficulties, it is important that we all provide the necessary support to help them thrive.

At Foothill College, we recognize the need for our students to grow not just intellectually, but emotionally and socially. The Red Folder is designed to offer guidance on how faculty, staff, and administrators can support student well-being through understanding, warmth, and proactive intervention.

How You Can Help

Recognize Signs of Distress

It’s essential to be aware of the indicators that a student may be struggling. Here are the types of behavior to watch for:

Academic Indicators

Pattern of repeated absences with or without communication
Decline in grades, quality of work, or participation
Bizarre content in class submissions
Repeated classroom disruptions

Psychological Indicators

Self-disclosure of distress (e.g., interpersonal issues, suicidal thoughts, grief)
Disproportional emotional responses (e.g., excessive tearfulness, panic)
Unprovoked anger or hostility

Safety Risk Indicators

Verbal abuse or intimidation
Implied or direct threats to harm self or others
Stalking or harassing behavior
Digital threats via email, text, or social media

Social and Physical Indicators

Marked change in engagement with peers or campus activities
Noticeable changes in physical appearance, grooming, or hygiene
Concerns from peers

Inervention Guidelines

Stay Calm

Demonstrate empathy and let the student know you are concerned.

Refer to Resources

Encourage the student to visit the Mental Health and Wellness Center (MHWC), or walk them to Lower Campus Center Room 2120 for support.

Set Boundaries

In the case of disruptive behavior, calmly explain how the behavior is inappropriate, and if necessary, ask the student to leave.

Safety First

If the student’s behavior escalates, call 911 or campus police immediately. Complete a Maxient Report after any significant incident.

Response Protocol

Is the student a danger to self or others?

YES:
Call 911 and complete a Maxient Report.
If a medical emergency, contact campus police immediately.
NOT SURE:
Contact the Mental Health and Wellness Center or Academic Counseling for advice, or complete a Maxient Report.
NO:
If the student is not in immediate danger but could use support, refer them to campus resources, and complete a Maxient Report if needed.

Campus Resources

Mental Health and Wellness Center: (650) 949-7910
In-person support at Lower Campus Center, Room 2120
Visit the MHWC website
Student Affairs: (650) 949-7241
Report an incident
Campus Police (Non-Emergency): (650) 949-7313
Available 24/7 for non-emergencies and prior incidents
Disability Resource Center (DRC): (650) 949-7017
DRC website
Owl's Nest: Basic Needs Center: 650-949-7618 Owls Nest Website

Community Reources

Santa Clara County Suicide & Crisis Services: Call 9-8-8
Crisis Text Line: Text 9-8-8 for confidential support
Bill Wilson Center Crisis Line: (408) 850-6125
Next Door Solutions (Domestic Violence Hotline): (408) 279-2962
YWCA Rape Crisis Center Hotline: (800) 572-2782
Family Supportive Housing: (408) 296-8885
2-1-1 Bay Area: Call 211 or text your zip code to 898211

Additional Ways you Can Help

Show Empathy

Students want to feel heard and understood. A simple acknowledgment of their struggles can make a profound difference. By showing that you care, you can help build trust and foster a sense of belonging, which is crucial for student success.

Support Beyond Academics

Well-being goes beyond intellectual achievements. As members of the Foothill College community, we encourage taking steps to promote balance and mental health, whether through encouraging social connection, sharing campus resources, or just being present when needed.

Be Open About Challenges

Students benefit from seeing their mentors as real, imperfect people who have faced their own struggles. Being open about setbacks and personal challenges can foster resilience in students and normalize the process of overcoming adversity.

Why We Use Red Folder

By acting sooner rather than later, we can create a culture of care and ensure that students at Foothill College have the resources and support they need to succeed.

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